Speech on Guru Nanak Jayanti in English

Updated: Nov 12

Ik Onkar, Satnam, Karta Purakh, Nirbhao, Nirvair. Akaal Moorat, Ajooni, Saibhang, Gur Prasad. Aad Sach, Jugaad Sach, Hai Bhi Sach, Nanak Hosi Bhi Sach

Warm greetings to everyone!

Today, we have gathered here to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He was the first Guru of the Sikhs. This day is also known as Gurpurab and is celebrated with great devotion and joy by Sikhs.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469, in a small village called Nankana Sahib, now in Pakistan. From a young age, he was wise and kind-hearted. He believed that everyone is equal, regardless of religion, caste, or social status.

He taught that we are all part of one family and that God is one, which he described with the words “Ik Onkar.”

Let me tell you how Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated across the world.

The celebrations often begin with a 48-hour uninterrupted reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs. This is called the Akhand Path and is an important part of Gurpurab.

A day before Guru Nanak Jayanti, a large procession known as Nagar Kirtan is held. The Guru Granth Sahib is carried on a beautifully decorated vehicle, led by five men, the Panj Pyare, or the five beloved ones. People sing kirtans (devotional hymns), and children perform Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art. Along the route, people offer food, drinks, and sweets to others.

On the day of the Gurpurab, people gather in gurdwaras (Sikh temples) early in the morning (Amrit Vela) to recite prayers and sing kirtans, that praise the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

One of the most important parts of the celebration is langar, a community meal that is open to everyone, regardless of religion, caste, or social background. Volunteers cook and serve simple vegetarian meals, and people sit together on the floor for the meals, symbolizing equality and humility.

Gurdwaras and homes are decorated with lights, candles, and flowers. Some gurdwaras have fireworks in the evening to mark the celebration. The celebration of Guru Purab at the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), Amritsar, is a special attraction for devotees and people across the world.

Now, let me tell you about Guru Nanak Ji’s teachings which were simple yet powerful.

He emphasized three main principles that he wanted everyone to follow:

Naam Japna – This means remembering and praying to Bhagwan and chanting his name.

Kirat Karni – This means working hard and earning an honest living. Guru Nanak Ji taught everyone to do their work and help their family and society through honest efforts.

Vand Chakna – This means sharing with others, especially those who are less fortunate. Guru Nanak Dev Ji encouraged everyone to be kind, helpful, and to give generously to those in need.

Let us remember and apply Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings in our lives. By doing this, we can make a big difference in our families, schools, and communities. By being kind, helpful and honest to others, we can make the world a better place for everyone.

Thank you, and happy Guru Nanak Jayanti to all!